Academics

Academics at TASIS are focused on challenging and inspiring students of all ages and abilities. Structured by the fundamental ideas expressed in the TASIS Mission Statement, students develop a passion for excellence, a respect and understanding of others, and the personal values of responsibility, civility, compassion, justice, and honesty.

The content of our courses is strongly oriented toward the classical liberal arts tradition as it is expressed in the heritage of Western civilization and world cultures. In addition to the classroom experience, TASIS also makes great use of its location in the heart of Europe to visit many of the sites where this long-standing cultural heritage is displayed, and to bring to campus artists and speakers who can enhance and complement the curriculum.

In order to implement these goals, TASIS draws on the strengths of the Core Knowledge, Advanced Placement, and International Baccalaureate programs. While English is the primary language of instruction, there is also a comprehensive English as an Additional Language (EAL) program in place throughout the curriculum. Fluent English-speaking students at all grade levels are required to study at least one modern language in addition to their native language. In Pre-Kindergarten through grade 8, all students are taught in a parallel English-language and Italian-language program. This strong emphasis on language acquisition continues through the IB Diploma Program, where TASIS teaches four primary A1 languages (English, Italian, German, and Russian) and supports a variety of self-taught languages. On average, approximately 60 percent of TASIS IB Diploma candidates receive a bilingual IB diploma.

TASIS students have consistently outperformed their peers in their pursuit of the IB Diploma, which opens doors to outstanding colleges and universities around the world. Diploma candidates have achieved pass rates of 97 percent or higher each of the past five years and typically earn IB Bilingual Diplomas at a rate of more than 60 percent.

Our dedicated University and College Counseling Office helps all students develop a detailed academic plan that aligns with their postsecondary goals. Over the past five years, our counselors have helped students gain acceptance to nearly 400 colleges and universities in 20 nations, including Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College London, Pennsylvania, Cornell, Duke, UC–Berkeley, UCLA, Johns Hopkins, Bowdoin, and Middlebury.